Apart from career, education, or family, a man’s to do list often neglects life experiences. While it is good to have big things on your check list, it is also important not to miss out on some other equally important things which we tend to ignore. Most men get so caught in the busyness of the daily grind, that we never really explore the endless possibilities life has to offer.
Here are 15 things every man must experience at least once in his life to help him evolve as a person.
1) Grow a beard.
It’ll make you look more masculine, distinguished, and intellectual.
2) Experience death.
Grief is something we’ll all go through at least once in our lives. It will show you how strong you really are.
3) Quit a bad habit.
It takes a lot of courage to give up a bad habit. Only a real man can do this. There is nothing better than conquering something that controls your day-to-day activities.
4) Experience winning.
We’re all average in most things we do. At least once in your life feel the high of being the best one even if for a moment.
5) Have children.
Children will make you happier. There is something about the love a parent has for their child that is different than all other loves.
6) Have your heart broken.
Heartbreaks may be devastating, but they always teach you a thing or two. Life moves on and there’s no better of way of realizing it than getting your heart broken.
7) Live by yourself.
Nothing makes you wiser than living completely by yourself. While you’re young, move out. Even if for a short time, a man should live on his own. It’ll make a man out of you.
8) Take a road trip.
At least one road trip before you hit your thirties is a must. It is a completely different experience from the regular destination vacations you’ve been going on your entire life. So, hop into your car and set out on a life-altering journey with your best buds!
9) Forgive someone.
“Forgiveness is not always easy. At times, it feels more painful than the wound we suffered, to forgive the one that inflicted it. And yet, there is no peace without forgiveness.” Marianne Williamson
10) Volunteer.
Start a petition. Contribute to an organization. Raise awareness of a problem. Don't be a bystander to injustice and evil.
11) Learn to play chess.
It’s the game of Kings and it doesn’t take long to learn. It does take a lifetime to be really good. Knowing how to play will always make you a better man.
12) Stand up for someone else.
It could be just shutting down gossip, speaking out against injustice or participating in worthwhile cause. “If you don't stand for something you will fall for anything.” Peter Marshall
13) Experience failure.
Fail at least once. Failure is as life-changing as success, probably even more. Don’t be afraid to lose. Failure will only make you stronger. Until you know failure, you won’t be able to appreciate success. Those who hit rock bottom and make their way back up, become legends.
14) Conquer your fears.
Everyone needs to know fear and more importantly, what it feels like to conquer it. You must do at least one thing that scares you out of your mind. You will see yourself emerging braver and stronger. Conquer your fears. Evolve.
15) Start a business.
Do something as simple as selling on eBay. Working for yourself or making your own money gives an incomparable sense of freedom.
Checkout The Ultimate Gentleman: Then Handbook 2.0, for more tips and suggestions on how to bring back the lost art of being a gentleman.